Senior Rebecca Rasmusson decided to join the Marines once she graduates from McAlester
High School in the spring of 2021. Rasmusson plans to continue pursuing her passion for music by enrolling in the Marine’s Musician Enlistment Option Program. Rasmusson is an all-state flute player, an instrument she’s been perfecting for the past seven years. She’s a third-generation flute player in her family, and once she leaves for boot camp in late September, Rasmusson will work toward becoming a fourth generation Marine.

Before she can enter the music program, like every Marine, Rasmusson must complete all the Marine Corps Recruit Training requirements to earn the Marine title.

“Everyone goes through boot camp and goes through the same combat training,” Rasmusson said. “Just like any Marine, you have to go through the physical fitness.”

Rasmusson joined the Marines the day after speaking with her recruiter, Sgt. Rios, who is preparing her for boot camp. But Rasmusson first heard about the Marine music program from her old Tahlequah high school band instructor.

“My old band director Josh Allen really influenced me a lot,” Rasmusson said.
“Whenever I couldn’t afford lessons, he offered to pay for them. He was like a father
figure because I never had one in my life, so he’s a really important part of my life. He’s the
one who told me how successful I could be, and he actually introduced me to some of the Marine bands, which is why I ended up wanting to pursue it.”

Being a member of the Marine band entails performing throughout the continental United States and internationally. Each member works toward being the best at their instrument while being a Marine.

“I would get to travel all over and play in parades and play for different branches of the military and cheer on our troops,” Rasmusson said. “I’m just excited for military life and all
it entails. I get a GI Bill for college and will potentially get a degree in flute performance. I really want to attend the University of North Texas because they have one of the best flute programs in the world. I come from a low-income family, so I’m excited to build up my wealth while I’m pursuing my dream.”

Once she retires from the Marines, Rasmusson wants to continue traveling the world while playing music. Eventually, she wants to become a band teacher and start a non-profit that will provide music lessons to underprivileged kids at no cost to them or their families.